The Hex (2018)

In the dimly lit, creaking confines of The Six Pint Inn, a storm rages both outside and within. A cryptic phone call to the barkeep reveals a chilling truth: a murder is being plotted amongst the six patrons. These aren't ordinary patrons; they are a collection of jaded video game protagonists, each desperately trying to outrun their own troubled pasts. However, the inn itself seems to possess a peculiar power, a way of dredging up forgotten memories. As you delve into these fragmented recollections, each playing out in a wildly different genre, you'll uncover the narrative threads that bind these characters together, potentially revealing the murderer, their intended victim, and even darker, more profound secrets lurking beneath the surface. "The Hex" by Daniel Mullins Games rightfully earns its place among their best for its audacious and deeply meta-narrative. Mullins consistently pushes the boundaries of storytelling in video games, and "The Hex" is a prime example of his genius. The game masterfully blends genre tropes, subverting player expectations at every turn, much like his previous critically acclaimed title, "Pony Island." The innovative use of genre-bending within the memory sequences isn't just a stylistic flourish; it’s integral to unraveling the psychological complexities of the characters and the overarching mystery. Its roughly six-hour runtime ensures a tightly-paced, impactful experience that leaves players questioning the very nature of narrative and player agency, hallmarks that define Daniel Mullins' unique and thought-provoking approach to game development.